My NBA Mount Rushmore

LeBron James recent statements about his NBA Mount Rushmore during an interview with Steve Smith has definitely ruffled some feathers.  King James listed Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird and Earvin Johnson as his four greatest NBA players.  LeBron went as far as to say by the time he's set to retire someone will need to get bumped from that list.  LeBron certainly has a great shot at being one of the greatest players to grace the NBA hardwood.  At 29 years of age he is on pace to break numerous records and leave his own imprint on the league.

My NBA Mount Rushmore happens to differ from LeBron's.  These are the four players I would have on my NBA Mount Rushmore.

1. Lew Alcindor/ Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a no brainer in my opinion.  Numbers speak volumes for this individual.  19 All Star appearances, a six time NBA champion, two time finals MVP and the all time leading scorer in NBA history.  After Wilt Chamberlin's playing days were over he was often quoted saying that the only player that gave him problems man to man during his career was Lew Alcindor.

2. Magic Johnson is arguably the greatest team player in the history of organized American sports.  Magic lead the Lakers to five NBA titles during the 1980's.  A three time finals MVP, 12 time All Star and three time regular season MVP.  Magic was at his best when the stakes were high. 

3. Michael Jordan seems to be the consensus pick for everyone and rightfully so.  Michael struck fear in his opponents in a manner in which no current NBA player possesses.  Six NBA championships  as well as a six time finals MVP speaks volumes.  Need I say more.

4. Bill Russell is the greatest winner in American organized sports to ever live.  That is not an argument.  11 time NBA champion, 12 time All Star and five time league MVP.  Russell could have scored more, he also could have won less.  The NBA was a small time league back then.  Today you would be hard pressed to find a player that possesses the qualities of Russell.  An amazing defender, extremely intelligent and historically unselfish.  It's a shame that anyone could leave Russell off their NBA Mount Rushmore.

That's it that's the list ( Tony Kornheiser voice )!